I am a 50-year-old divorced father of three teenage boys. My youngest is autistic. My second boy taunts and harasses him whenever they're together. I've tried to explain to No. 2 that he should show a little more compassion and understanding. I've told both older boys of No. 3's situation and I've tried my best to explain what autism is about.

No. 1 is pretty good with No. 3. It's No. 2 who concerns me. I need a better approach to get him to see No. 3 in a different light and to see the damage that he may be doing to him.

– Worried Dad

Dear Worried Dad,

The way your second son acts towards his younger brother is an oft-repeated story of siblings – whether there is an issue of disability or not. Compared to an older sibling, all younger siblings do have a disability: They are younger, hence usually smaller, weaker, less smart.